Young Harris College student selected for Georgia governor’s internship
YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. — A fascination with policy, law and politics has led to a Young Harris College senior landing an internship with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp.
Hayden Durrett, a senior with a Public Policy & Law and Business Administration double-major, was selected for the spring 2024 internship, working in the state capitol in Atlanta in the governor’s office.
“I knew before I graduated from Young Harris, I wanted to participate in an internship to gain hands-on experience,” Durrett said. “I am distinctly interested in policy, law, and politics, so I knew I wanted to find an internship that emphasized my interests.”
Durrett, a native of Gray, GA., is a member of the Young Harris College Men’s Cross-Country team, an Admissions Representative, and a public policy and law tutor. He is on track to graduate in May.
According to the Governor’s office, the Internship Program offers students work experience in the Governor’s office and in numerous agencies throughout the state. Interns work in a fast-paced environment and have opportunities to learn about politics, state government and the legislative process.
“After exploring different opportunities, I was encouraged by Meridith Davis in Career Services to apply for the Governor’s Internship. The internship provides rich and valuable experience that I knew I could benefit a lot from,” Durrett said. “I knew the application process was rigorous and highly competitive, so I figured I would give it a shot.”
Durrett’s professors were not surprised by his selection for this internship.
“Hayden is an excellent choice for the Governor’s internship program,” said Dr. John H. Van Vliet III, professor of Business and Public Policy at Young Harris College. “He brings a strong mix of intellectual ability, critical curiosity, self-discipline, pleasant sociability, and a strong work ethic. His future is bright, and I expect him to shine as he engages in the internship.”
Durrett plans on continuing similar work after graduation before attending law school.
“Considering my plan of pursuing a legal career, the Governor’s Internship aligns perfectly with allowing me to expand my knowledge of law and government while gaining meaningful experience,” Durrett said. “Young Harris College has provided a space for me to learn in an atmosphere that is both intellectually intriguing and challenging. I believe the knowledge I have gained will be important during the internship. Young Harris has been extremely helpful throughout the process.”
You can learn more about the Governor’s Internship Program here: https://gov.georgia.gov/governors-internship-program/program-information
About Young Harris College
Young Harris College is a private baccalaureate and master’s degree-granting institution located in the beautiful mountains of North Georgia. Founded in 1886 and historically affiliated with The United Methodist Church, Young Harris College educates, inspires, and empowers students through an education that purposefully integrates the liberal arts and professional studies. The College has four academic divisions: Fine Arts; Humanities; Mathematics, Science, and Technology; and Professional Studies. Approximately 1,400 students are enrolled in its residential and Early College programs. The College is an active member of the NCAA Division II and remains a fierce competitor in the Conference Carolinas. For more information, visit yhc.edu.
